World Mental Health Day 2024 – 10 October 2024

Today’s World Mental Health Day 2024 is an important reminder that we all need to take care of our mental health. This year’s theme of mental health in the workplace (with a spotlight on burnout), is of particular importance, especially in the legal sector where 69% of professionals report high levels of anxiety (and other related mental ill health) with a high risk of burnout*.

Many law professionals are constantly dealing with stress, anxiety and ultimately burnout, often due to high workloads, working long hours, or lack of support. As work pressures continue to rise, it is more important than ever that firms prioritise the mental health of their workforce.

The definition of Health and Safety in the workplace is evolving to include the risks to mental health in relation to organisational culture and working practices

The WHO guidelines on mental health at work provide evidence-based recommendations to promote mental health and enable people living with mental health conditions to participate and thrive in the workplace. The recommendations include: manager and worker training, individual interventions, returning to work and gaining employment guidance. A supportive work environment can improve staff wellbeing and improve individual as well as organisational performance.

Organisations are encouraged to review their organisational culture to proactively manage the risks in the workplace that could cause harm. These include developing a better understanding of the mental health concerns staff may have; investing in training and support for both staff and managers, embedding a risk-based approach to stress (to avoid it developing into a mental health issue). They should also consider the benefits of flexible working hours and look to develop an inclusive workplace to encourage collaboration and mutual support.

Stress and burnout

Workplace burnout happens when a person experiences chronic stress at work. This can lead to signs of burnout including: loss of energy, negativity or cynicism towards work, reduced performance and feelings over overwhelm. It is important to be able to recognise the signs in yourself and in others and know when to ask for help.

Help and support

LawCare are the mental health charity for the legal sector and can provide help if you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to. If you need support, please call their confidential helpline at 0800 279 6888, email support@lawcare.org.uk or use their live chat function at www.lawcare.org.uk.

• Spot the signs of burnout
• Work burnout symptoms and how to recover
• How workplace culture and practices affect mental health in legal sector support roles – Lawcare webinar 10 October 12.30 – 1.30

*LawCare’s 2021 `Life in the Law’ survey